Red Currant Jelly is a delightful and versatile preserve that can enhance a variety of dishes with its tangy sweetness. This classic recipe showcases the bright flavor of red currants, making it a perfect condiment for meats, cheeses, or simply spreading on toast. Below you’ll find a detailed recipe for creating your own Red Currant Jelly, along with helpful tips and techniques.
Image of Red Currant Jelly
This vibrant jelly not only looks stunning but also bursts with flavor.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Red Currant Jelly, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh red currants
- 4 cups water
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added tartness)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own homemade Red Currant Jelly:
- Begin by rinsing the red currants thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Remove stems and any leaves.
- In a large pot, combine the red currants and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the currants are soft and release their juices. Stir occasionally.
- Once cooked, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to extract the juice. You should have about 4 cups of juice. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Return the extracted juice to the pot and stir in the fruit pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once and stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. Boil the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches the desired gel consistency. If using, stir in the lemon juice at this point.
- Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam from the surface. Carefully ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Seal the jars with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes to ensure a proper seal.
- Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. Your Red Currant Jelly will be ready to enjoy and can be stored for up to a year.
Enjoy this delicious Red Currant Jelly as a spread on your morning toast, or as a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats and cheeses. The bright, tangy flavor is sure to impress and elevate any meal!
source: www.daringgourmet.com
